My name is Nea Tarry, and I want to share my journey from struggle to recovery, thanks to Vegas Stronger. This isn’t just a story about overcoming addiction; it’s about finding hope, family, and purpose.
I found Vegas Stronger through the LIMA program. At the time, I was facing significant domestic troubles. An officer who visited my home referred me to LIMA, and from there, I was connected to Vegas Stronger. I was battling addiction to opioids and methamphetamines and had hit rock bottom—living in an abandoned house that had once been my family home. I wasn’t ready to leave, but something had to change.
One day, while I was desperate and hungry, a woman delivering pizza crossed my path. She turned out to be a homeless advocate and gave me her card and also directed me to Vegas Stronger. Although it took time, her kindness stayed with me. It wasn’t until the second person encouraged me to seek help that I was ready to listen. That’s when my real journey began.
I entered detox and moved through various stages of medical attention and residential treatment before landing at Vegas Stronger for outpatient care. Here, I finally submitted to the process of recovery. I admitted I had a problem, and for the first time, I was ready to do something different. My children were on the line. My dad had taken them, and I knew I needed to change but didn’t know how.
Vegas Stronger showed me love and acceptance, no matter where I had been. The support was holistic, with doctors on-site and dedicated professionals like Shawnee, who provided one-on-one sessions that were instrumental in addressing all my issues. The family-oriented environment made me feel included and supported. They always invited me to events and encouraged me to give back, teaching me that helping others is a powerful way to maintain sobriety.
Peer support was a critical element of my recovery. It’s like having a brother or sister who’s walked the same road. I could talk to them, call them, and shared both emotional and spiritual connections. When I struggled or cried, they were there, sitting with me until I felt whole again. Whether I needed help finding a job or overcoming obstacles, they looked out for me and made me feel cared for.
Vegas Stronger offers everything someone in a vulnerable state needs: food, clothing, medical support, bus passes—the essentials to get back on your feet. But more importantly, they provide unwavering support. If you’re ready to change your life, Vegas Stronger is here, waiting for you.
Today, I’m excited about being an example for others. I’ve come a long way from being broken and desperate for sobriety. I’m now on the other side, proving that change is possible. Life isn’t easy—even sober, it’s a daily fight. But I’ve regained so much: my children, my self-worth, and a sense of purpose.
My kids are back in my life, and although the road ahead is still challenging, I’m committed to being there for them in every way I wasn’t before. Sobriety doesn’t come with a red carpet; it requires effort, meetings, and selflessness. But the rewards are worth it.
If you’re struggling, know this: You can do it. Vegas Stronger has the resources and the support to help you. But you have to be ready to fight for what you want. It’s not just about getting sober; it’s about staying sober and giving back to others. That’s how you find strength, hope, and a new life.
Thank you, Vegas Stronger, for helping me turn my life around. I’ll never go back to what I was—mentally, spiritually, or financially. I’m living proof that recovery is possible.